Sociology Major | 2017

Overview

Sociology is the study of society. It examines social life, cultural and social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behaviour. Sociology involves asking questions about human life and society, developing understandings of our diverse and rapidly changing world, and identifying the causes of and solutions to social problems. Study sociology to learn key research skills, engage with social issues, and expand your world.

By acquiring sociological skills students develop the ability to analyse a wide variety of social processes, institutions, causes of social change, and the structures of groups and societies. Specific areas of study include social theory and social research methods; social policy and the state; gender, sexuality and the body; crime and punishment; race and ethnicity; social class; families and intimacy; social interaction; social movements; globalisation, development, and social change; and media and popular culture. The Sociology Program at the Faculty of Law, Humanities and the Arts organises these areas thematically, allowing students to navigate their own path through the curriculum, and consolidate in areas of interest over the course of the degree.

Sociology is an exciting area of study, taught with passion, and providing expanding opportunities for a wide range of career paths including:

• All levels of government: graduate entry programs, industrial relations, criminal justice, work, policy development and implementation, case management, group work with youth or the elderly, urban planning, administration, migrant and multicultural affairs;
• Community and non-profit organisations: administration, overseas aid and development agencies, social research, policy development, lobbying, environmental campaigns;
• Business: consumer/social research, public relations, publishing, journalism, personnel work, training;
• Academic work: University and TAFE teaching, research assistant work.

Major Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this major students will be able to:

1. Understand and critically assess core ideas in Sociology and related fields of society;
2. Design and report on independent sociological research projects, using appropriate sociological research methods; 
3. Critically assess and apply contemporary sociological theories to important current social issues. 

Subjects Required for Major Study

A major in Sociology consists of at least 48 credit points as outlined below. 

Minor Study

A 24 credit point minor in Sociology is available.

Honours

See Bachelor of Arts (Honours).

Credit Arrangements

Credit and articulation arrangements are available from the Course Finder. Refer to UOW's credit arrangements for information on how to apply for credit.

Other Information

Further information is available at:
UOW Course Finder
Email: lha-enquiries@uow.edu.au